Climate control assembly

ABSTRACT

A climate controlled seat assembly includes a thermoelectric device having a main side and a waste side for generating a conditioned fluid stream and a waste fluid stream respectively, a fluid distribution system for distributing the conditioned fluid stream towards an occupant seated on the climate controlled seat assembly and for gathering and pulling fluid from around the occupant and directed this gathered fluid away from the occupant.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.61/991,310, filed May 9, 2014, titled CLIMATE CONTROL ASSEMBLY, which ishereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and is to beconsidered a part of this specification.

BACKGROUND

Field

This disclosure relates to climate control, and, more particularly, to aclimate control assembly.

Background

Temperature modified air for environmental control of living or workingspace is typically provided to relatively extensive areas, such asentire buildings, selected offices, or suites of rooms within abuilding. In the case of vehicles, such as automobiles, the entirevehicle is typically cooled or heated as a unit. There are manysituations, however, in which more selective or restrictive airtemperature modification is desirable. For example, it is oftendesirable to provide an individualized climate control for an occupantseat so that substantially instantaneous heating or cooling can beachieved. For example, an automotive vehicle exposed to the summerweather, where the vehicle has been parked in an unshaded area for along period of time, can cause the vehicle seat to be very hot anduncomfortable for the occupant for some time after entering and usingthe vehicle, even with normal air conditioning. Furthermore, even withnormal air-conditioning, on a hot day, the seat occupant's back andother pressure points may remain sweaty while seated. In the wintertime, it is highly desirable to have the ability to quickly warm theseat of the occupant to facilitate the occupant's comfort, especiallywhere the normal vehicle heater is unlikely to warm the vehicle'sinterior as quickly.

For such reasons, there have been various types of individualizedclimate control systems for vehicle seats. Climate control systems caninclude a distribution system comprising a combination of channels andpassages formed in the cushion of the seat. A thermal module thermallyconditions the air and delivers the conditioned air to seat channels andpassages. The conditioned air flows through the channels and passages tocool or heat the space adjacent the surface of the vehicle seat.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, the climate controlled seat assembly can include athermoelectric device having a main side and a waste side. The climatecontrolled seat assembly can include a main heat exchanger coupled tothe main side of the thermoelectric device for generating a conditionedfluid stream from a first fluid stream. The climate controlled seatassembly can include a waste heat exchanger coupled to the waste side ofthe thermoelectric device for generating a waste fluid stream from asecond fluid stream. The climate controlled seat assembly can include afirst fluid path in the seat assembly that directs the first fluidstream and the conditioned fluid stream to a seating surface designed tocontact an occupant. The climate controlled seat assembly can include asecond fluid path that directs a second fluid stream from a locationproximate the seating surface to the waste heat exchanger and the wastefluid stream away from the occupant.

In some embodiments, the first fluid path can draw the first fluidstream from a location spaced from the seating surface. In someembodiments, the first fluid path can draw the first fluid stream from alocation opposite the occupant. In some embodiments, the second fluidpath can exhaust the waste fluid stream to location spaced from theseating surface. In some embodiments, the second fluid path can exhaustthe waste fluid stream to a location opposite the occupant.

In some embodiments, the climate controlled seat assembly can include afirst pumping device fluidically coupled to at least one of theconditioned fluid path and the waste fluid path. In some embodiments,the climate controlled seat assembly can include a second pumpingdevice, wherein the first pumping device is fluidically coupled to theconditioned fluid path and the second pumping device is fluidicallycoupled to the waste fluid path. In some embodiments, the first pumpingdevice can include a rotor having a plurality of fins and a motorcoupled to the rotor, a first inlet in fluid communication with a firstoutlet, and a second inlet in fluid communication with a second outlet.

In some embodiments, the first inlet and the first outlet of the firstpumping device can be fluidically coupled to the conditioned fluid pathand the second inlet and second outlet can be fluidically coupled to thewaste fluid path. In some embodiments, the main heat exchanger can bepositioned between the first inlet and the first outlet. In someembodiments, the waste heat exchanger can be positioned between thesecond inlet and the second outlet. In some embodiments, a direction offlow through the first inlet and a direction of flow through the firstoutlet can be generally parallel. In some embodiments, the first outletcan be positioned at a top side of the first pumping device. In someembodiments, a direction of flow through the second inlet and adirection of flow through the second outlet can be generally orthogonal.In some embodiments, the second outlet can be positioned at a leftand/or right side of the first pumping device.

In some embodiments, the first pumping device can include a firstducting fluidically coupling the first inlet and the first outlet,wherein a direction of flow through the first outlet can be generallyorthogonal to a direction of flow through the first ducting. In someembodiments, the first pumping device can include a second ductingfluidically coupling the second inlet and the second outlet, wherein adirection of flow through the second outlet can be generally orthogonalto a direction of flow through the second ducting.

In some embodiments, the seating surface designed to contact an occupantcan be a top surface of a seat. In some embodiments, the first pumpingdevice can be positioned below the top surface of the seat. In someembodiments, the seating surface designs to contact an occupant can be afront surface of a backrest. In some embodiments, the first pumpingdevice can be positioned behind the front surface of the backrest.

In some embodiments, the climate controlled seat assembly can includechannels along the top surfaces of the side bolsters from which thesecond fluid stream is withdrawn. In some embodiments, the second fluidstream can be withdrawn at or proximate a seat area of the seat. In someembodiments, the conditioned fluid stream can be directed to theoccupant at or proximate a thigh area of the seat. In some embodiments,the seat can include a first fluid distribution system at or proximate aseat area of the seat. In some embodiments, the first fluid distributionsystem can include channels extending laterally outwards towards sidesof the seat. In some embodiments, the first fluid distribution systemcan include an intermediate layer positioned between the channels and anoverlying layer of the seat, the layer designed to maintain a gapbetween the channels and the overlying layer. In some embodiments, theoverlying layer can be a spacer fabric positioned between theintermediate layer and a cushion of the seat. In some embodiments, theseat can include a second fluid distribution system at or proximate athigh area of the seat. In some embodiments, the second fluiddistribution system can include channels extending laterally outwardstowards sides of the seat. In some embodiments, the second fluiddistribution system can include an intermediate layer positioned betweenthe channels and an overlying layer, the layer designed to maintain agap between the channels and the overlying layer. In some embodiments,the overlying layer can be a cushion of the seat.

In some embodiments, the second fluid stream can be withdrawn at orproximate a lumbar region of the backrest. In some embodiments, theconditioned fluid stream can be directed to the occupant at or proximatean upper back area of the backrest. In some embodiments, the backrestcan include a first fluid distribution system at or proximate a lumbarregion of the backrest. In some embodiments, the first fluiddistribution system can include channels extending laterally outwardstowards sides of the backrest. In some embodiments, the backrest caninclude a second fluid distribution system at or proximate an upper backarea of the backrest. In some embodiments, the second fluid distributionsystem can include channels extending laterally outwards towards sidesof the backrest. In some embodiments, the second fluid distributionsystem can include an intermediate layer positioned between the channelsand an overlying layer, the layer designed to maintain a gap between thechannels and the overlying layer. In some embodiments, the overlyinglayer can be a cushion of the seat

In some embodiments, the climate controlled seat assembly can include athermoelectric device having a main side and a waste side. The climatecontrolled seat assembly can include a main heat exchanger coupled tothe main side of the thermoelectric device for generating a conditionedfluid stream from a first fluid stream. The climate controlled seatassembly can include a waste heat exchanger coupled to the waste side ofthe thermoelectric device for generating a waste fluid stream from asecond fluid stream. In some embodiments, the conditioned fluid streamcan be directed to a location proximate a seating surface designed tocontact an occupant. In some embodiments, the second fluid stream can bewithdrawn from a location proximate the seating surface designed tocontact an occupant.

In some embodiments, the climate controlled seat assembly can includechannels along the top surfaces of the side bolsters from which thesecond fluid stream is withdrawn. In some embodiments, the seatingsurface designed to contact an occupant is a top surface of the seat. Insome embodiments, the seating surface designed to contact an occupant isa front surface of the backrest. In some embodiments, the first fluidstream is withdrawn from a location opposite the occupant.

In some embodiments, the second fluid stream can be withdrawn at orproximate a seat area of the seat. In some embodiments, the conditionedfluid stream can be directed to the occupant at or proximate a thigharea of the seat. In some embodiments, the seat can include a firstfluid distribution system at or proximate a seat area of the seat. Insome embodiments, the first fluid distribution system can includechannels extending laterally outwards towards sides of the seat. In someembodiments, the first fluid distribution system can include anintermediate layer positioned between the channels and an overlyinglayer of the seat, the layer designed to maintain a gap between thechannels and the overlying layer. In some embodiments, the overlyinglayer can be a spacer fabric positioned between the intermediate layerand a cushion of the seat. In some embodiments, the seat can include asecond fluid distribution system at or proximate a thigh area of theseat. In some embodiments, the second fluid distribution system caninclude channels extending laterally outwards towards sides of the seat.In some embodiments, the second fluid distribution system can include anintermediate layer positioned between the channels and an overlyinglayer, the layer configured to maintain a gap between the channels andthe overlying layer. In some embodiments, the overlying layer can be acushion of the seat.

In some embodiments, the second fluid stream can be withdrawn at orproximate a lumbar region of the backrest. In some embodiments, theconditioned fluid stream can be directed to the occupant at or proximatean upper back area of the backrest. In some embodiments, the backrestcan include a first fluid distribution system at or proximate a lumbarregion of the backrest. In some embodiments, the first fluiddistribution system can include channels extending laterally outwardstowards sides of the backrest. In some embodiments, the backrest caninclude a second fluid distribution system at or proximate an upper backarea of the backrest. In some embodiments, the second fluid distributionsystem can include channels extending laterally outwards towards sidesof the backrest. In some embodiments, the second fluid distributionsystem can include an intermediate layer positioned between the channelsand an overlying layer, the layer designed to maintain a gap between thechannels and the overlying layer. In some embodiments, the overlyinglayer can be a cushion of the seat.

In some embodiments, the climate controlled seat assembly can include apumping device. In some embodiments, the pumping device can include arotor having a plurality of fins, a motor coupled to the rotor, a firstinlet in fluid communication with a first outlet, and a second inlet influid communication with a second outlet.

In some embodiments, the main heat exchanger can be positioned betweenthe first inlet and the first outlet of the pumping device and the wasteheat exchanger can be positioned between the second inlet and the secondoutlet of the pumping device. In some embodiments, a direction of flowthrough the first inlet and a direction of flow through the first outletcan be generally parallel. In some embodiments, the first outlet can bepositioned at a top side of the pumping device. In some embodiments, adirection of flow through the second inlet and a direction of flowthrough the second outlet can be generally orthogonal. In someembodiments, the second outlet can be positioned at a left and/or rightside of the first pumping device. In some embodiments, the first pumpingdevice can include a first ducting fluidically coupling the first inletand the first outlet, wherein a direction of flow through the firstoutlet can be generally orthogonal to a direction of flow through thefirst ducting. In some embodiments, the first pumping device can includea second ducting fluidically coupling the second inlet and the secondoutlet, wherein a direction of flow through the second outlet can begenerally orthogonal to a direction of flow through the second ducting.

In some embodiments, the first inlet of the pumping device can befluidically coupled one of the main heat exchanger and the waste heatexchanger and the second outlet can be fluidically coupled to the otherof the main heat exchanger and the waste heat exchanger.

In some embodiments, the thermal module can include a thermoelectricdevice comprising a main side and a waste side. The thermal module caninclude a main heat exchanger having a plurality of fins coupled to themain side of the thermoelectric device for generating a conditionedfluid. The thermal module can include a waste heat exchanger having aplurality of fins coupled to the waste side of the thermoelectricdevice. In some embodiments, the plurality of fins of the main heatexchanger and the plurality of fins of the waste heat exchanger can bedesigned such that flow through the main heat exchanger and the wasteheat exchanger is oblique or perpendicular. In some embodiments, theflow through the main heat exchanger and the waste heat exchanger can besubstantially perpendicular. In some embodiments, the flow through themain heat exchanger and the waste heat exchanger can be perpendicular.

In some embodiments, a method of conditioning a seat assembly caninclude the step of producing a conditioned fluid stream from a firstfluid stream. The method can include the step of directing theconditioned fluid stream to a support surface designed to contact anoccupant. The method can include the step of withdrawing a second fluidstream from a location proximate the support surface.

In some embodiments, the method can include the step of producing awaste fluid stream from the second fluid stream. In some embodiments,the method can include exhausting the waste fluid stream to a locationspaced from the seating surface. In some embodiments, the step ofproducing a conditioned fluid stream includes passing the first fluidstream through a first heat exchanger. In some embodiments, the methodcan include pulling the first fluid stream from a location spaced fromthe seating surface.

In some embodiments, directing the conditioned fluid stream to a supportsurface designed to contact an occupant can include directing theconditioned fluid stream at or proximate a thigh area of a seat of theseat assembly. In some embodiments, directing the conditioned fluidstream to a support surface designed to contact an occupant can includedirecting the conditioned fluid stream at or proximate an upper backarea of a backrest of the seat assembly. In some embodiments,withdrawing a second fluid stream from a location proximate the supportsurface can include withdrawing the second fluid stream at or proximatea seat area of a seat of the seat assembly. In some embodiments,withdrawing a second fluid stream from a location proximate the supportsurface can include withdrawing the second fluid stream at or proximatea lumbar region of a backrest of the seat assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle seat assembly that can includea climate control system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the vehicle seat assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle seat assembly of FIG. 1taken along line 2A-2A of FIG. 2.

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle seat assembly of FIG. 1taken along line 2B-2B of FIG. 2.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the vehicle seat assembly of FIG. 1 with acovering of the seat assembly removed.

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of the vehicle seat assembly andclimate control system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a vehicle seatassembly and climate control system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of a vehicleseat assembly and climate control system according to the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of a vehicleseat assembly and climate control system according to the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a thermal modulewithout a housing according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a thermal modulewith a housing according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the thermal module of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11A is a top view of an embodiment of a seat assembly and climatecontrol system having a first configuration of openings according to thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 11B is a top view of an embodiment of a seat assembly and climatecontrol system having a second configuration of openings according tothe present disclosure.

FIG. 11C is a close up view of a thermal module and seat assembly ofFIG. 11A.

FIG. 12A is a top view of another embodiment of a seat assembly andclimate control system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 12B close up view of a thermal module and seat assembly of FIG.12A.

FIG. 12C is a top view of another embodiment of a seat assembly andclimate control system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 12D is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 12C with cushioningplaced over the thermal modules.

FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a seat assemblywith climate control components contained therein according to thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a top view of an embodiment of a seat assembly and climatecontrol system having an embodiment of a fluid distribution unitaccording to the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a top view of an embodiment of a seat assembly and climatecontrol system having another embodiment of a fluid distribution unitaccording to the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a top view of an embodiment of a seat assembly and climatecontrol system having another embodiment of a fluid distribution unitaccording to the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 is a bottom view of an embodiment of a seat assembly and climatecontrol system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 is a top view of an embodiment of a seat frame according to thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 19A is a bottom view of an embodiment of a seat frame having anintegrally formed first fluid distribution component and second fluiddistribution component according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 19B is a bottom view of the seat frame of FIG. 19A highlighting thefirst fluid distribution component.

FIG. 19C is a bottom view of the seat frame of FIG. 19A highlighting thesecond fluid distribution component.

FIG. 20A is a bottom view of an embodiment of a seat frame having aseparately formed first fluid distribution component and second fluiddistribution component according to the present disclosure with thefirst fluid distribution component highlighted.

FIG. 20B is a bottom view of the seat frame of FIG. 20A highlighting thesecond fluid distribution component.

FIG. 21 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a vehicle seatassembly and climate control system with a dual-mode pumping deviceaccording to the present disclosure.

FIG. 22 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a dual-modepumping device according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 23 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of a vehicleseat assembly and climate control system with a dual-mode pumping deviceaccording to the present disclosure.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a dual-mode pumpingdevice according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 25 is a side, cross-sectional view of the dual-mode pumping deviceof FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a top, exploded view of the dual-mode pumping device of FIG.24.

FIG. 27 is a bottom, exploded view of the dual-mode pumping device ofFIG. 24.

FIG. 28 is a top view of another embodiment of a seat and climatecontrol system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 29 is a top view of the seat and climate control system of FIG. 28with a layer included.

FIG. 30 is a top view of the seat and climate control system of FIG. 29with a spacer fabric included.

FIG. 31 is a top view of the seat and climate control system of FIG. 30with additional cushioning.

FIG. 32 is a bottom view of the seat and climate control system of FIG.28.

FIG. 33 is a bottom view of the seat and climate control system of FIG.28 with additional components.

FIG. 34 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of the seat and climatecontrol system of FIG. 31.

FIG. 35 is a front view of another embodiment of a backrest and climatecontrol system according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 36 is a front view of the backrest and climate control system ofFIG. 35 with additional cushioning.

FIG. 37 is a rear view of the backrest and climate control system ofFIG. 35.

FIG. 38 is a rear view of the backrest and climate control system ofFIG. 37 with additional components.

FIG. 39 is a front, view of another embodiment of a seat assembly andclimate control system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1 and 2 are front perspective and side views a climate controlledseat assembly 30 can in certain arrangements be used with one or more ofthe features and arrangements described with reference to FIGS. 6-22below. As shown, the seat assembly 30 comprises a seat portion 32 and abackrest 34. The seat assembly 30 also includes a climate control system36, which will be described in more detail below with reference to FIG.4.

When an occupant sits in the seat assembly 30, the occupant's seat islocated generally in a seat area 40 of the seat or seat portion 32 andat least a portion of their legs are supported by a thigh area 42 of theseat portion 32. In this embodiment, a rear end 44 of the seat portion32 is coupled to a bottom end 46 of the backrest or backrest portion 34.When the occupant sits in the seat assembly 30, the occupant's backcontacts a front surface 48 of the backrest portion 34 and theoccupant's seat and legs contact a top surface 50 of the seat portion32. The surfaces 48, 50 cooperate to support the occupant in a sittingposition. The seat assembly 30 can be configured and sized toaccommodate occupants of various size and weight.

In the illustrated embodiment, the seat assembly 30 is similar to astandard automotive seat. However, it should be appreciated that certainfeatures and aspects of the embodiments and arrangements of thisdisclosure may also be used in a variety of other applications andenvironments. For example, certain features and aspects of the seatassembly 30 and the embodiments and arrangements of this disclosure maybe adapted for use in other vehicles, such as, for example, an airplane,a boat, or the like. Further, certain features and aspects of the of theembodiments and arrangements of this disclosure can also be adapted foruse in stationary environments, such as, for example, a chair, a sofa, atheater seat, a mattress, topper for a mattress, and/or an office seatthat is used in a place of business and/or residence and/or any othersurface on which an occupant can be supported and on which thermalconditioning can be desirable. Certain features and aspects of the ofthe embodiments and arrangements of this disclosure can also be adaptedfor use in applications where it is desired to cool an enclosed orpartially enclosed space, such as, for example, a cupholder or a heatedand/or cooled bin.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the backrest 34 has a frontside 54, a rear side 56, a top side 58 and a bottom side 60. Thebackrest 34 includes a pair of sides 57, 59 extending between the topside 58 and bottom side 60 for providing lateral support to the occupantof the seat assembly 30. A lumbar region 62 of the backrest 34 isgenerally positioned between the sides 57, 59 of the backrest 34 nearthe seat portion 32.

In a similar manner, the seat portion 32 has a front side 64, a rearside 66, a top side 68 and a bottom side 70. The seat portion 32 alsoincludes a pair of sides 69, 71, which extending from the rear side 66and the front side 64 for providing lateral support to the occupant ofthe seat assembly 30. In one embodiment, the seat assembly 30 is securedto a vehicle by attaching the bottom side 70 of the seat portion 32 tothe floor of a vehicle.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are cross-sectional views of a portion of the backrest34 and seat portion 32 respectively. As shown, the backrest 34 and seatportion 32 are generally formed by a cushion 72, which is covered withan appropriate covering material 74 (e.g., upholstery, leather orleather like materials). The cushion 72 is typically supported on ametallic frame (not shown) although other materials, such as plasticsand composites, can also be used. In some embodiments, springs may bepositioned between the frame and the cushion 72. The frame provides theseat assembly 30 with structural support while the cushion 72 provides asoft seating surface. The covering material 74 provides an aestheticappearance and soft feel to the surface of the seat assembly 30.

FIG. 3 illustrates the seat assembly 30 of FIGS. 1 and 2 with thecovering 74 removed thereby exposing the cushion 72. The cushion 72 canbe a typical automotive seat cushion foam or other types of materialswith suitable characteristics for providing support to an occupant. Suchmaterials include, but are not limited to, closed or open-celled foam.

As shown in FIG. 3, the backrest 34 of the seat assembly 30 is providedwith a backrest fluid distribution system 76A. The distribution system76A comprises an inlet passage 78A through from the front side 54 to therear side 56 of the seat cushion 72. (See also FIG. 2A). Thedistribution system 76A also includes at least one, and often, aplurality of channels 80A, which extend from the inlet passage 78A.

As mentioned above, the cushion 72 may be formed from a typicalautomotive cushion material, such as, for example, an open or closedcell foam. In one embodiment, the cushion 72 is made of foam that ispre-molded to form the passage 78A and/or the channels 80A. In someembodiments, portions of the cushion 72 can have structuralcharacteristics which differ from the structural characteristics ofother portions of the cushion 72. For example, certain portions of thecushion 72 can be more compliant than other portions of the cushion 72.In some embodiments, portions of the cushion 72 positioned betweenchannels 80A and the covering material 74 can be a porous material whichcan desirably facilitate the ventilation function of the seat, that is,allows air to be pushed or pulled through the top surface into thechannels within the seat assembly 30. In some embodiments, portions ofthe cushion 72 positioned between channels 80A and the covering material74 can be a smoothing layer. The portions of the cushion 72 positionedbetween channels 80A and the covering material 74 can be attached to thecovering layer 74, for example by adhesive and/or sewing. In anotherembodiment, the passage 78A and/or the channels 80A may be formed bycutting foam out of the seat cushion 72. In another embodiment, thepassage 78A and/or channels 80A can be formed using a plenum or othersimilar device having one or more air passageways for distributing theair flow through the cushion 72. The channels can be filled with airpermeable material e.g., spacer fabric that can provide support whilestill allowing the flow of air through the material.

With reference back to FIG. 2A, the channels 80A can be covered by ascrim 81A to define distribution passages 82A for transporting airthrough the seat assembly 30. The scrim 81A includes one or moreopenings 84A for delivering air to and/or from the distribution passages82A. The scrim 81A may be formed of a material similar to the cushion72. In the illustrated embodiment, the scrim 81A is attached to thecushion 72 in a manner that limits leakage between the scrim 81A andcushion 72 thereby directing the flow of air through the openings 84A.In one embodiment, an adhesive is used to attach the scrim 81A to thecushion 72. In other embodiments, a heat stake or fasteners may be used.

With continued reference to FIG. 2A, a distribution layer 86A can bedisposed between the scrim 81A and the seat covering 74. Thedistribution layer 86A can spread the air flowing through the openings84A along the lower surface of the covering 74. To permit airflowbetween the distribution layer 86A and the spaces proximal to the frontsurface 48 of the backrest 34, the covering 74 may be formed from anair-permeable material. For example, in one embodiment, the covering 74comprises an air-permeable fabric made of natural and/or syntheticfibers. In another embodiment, the covering can be formed from aleather, or leather-like material that is provided with small openingsor apertures.

With reference to FIGS. 2B and 3, the seat 32 of the seat assembly 30can be provided with a seat cushion fluid distribution system 76B. Theseat distribution system 76B also comprises an inlet passage 78B throughfrom the top side 68 to the bottom side 70 of the seat cushion 72. Aswith the backrest distribution system 76A, the seat distribution system76B also includes at least one, and often, a plurality of channels 80B,which extend from the inlet passage 78B. These channels 80B may beconfigured as described above.

In the seat distribution system 76B, the channels 80B are also coveredby a scrim 81B to define distribution passages 82B for transporting airthrough the seat assembly 30. The scrim 81B includes one or moreopenings 84B for delivering air to and/or from the distribution passages82B. As described above, the scrim 81B may be formed of a materialsimilar to the cushion 72 and is preferably attached to the cushion 72in a manner that limits leakage between the scrim 81B and cushion 72. Adistribution layer 86B can be disposed between the scrim 81B and theseat covering 74.

As will be explained in more detail below, in one embodiment,conditioned air can be delivered to the distribution passages 82A, 82Bthrough the inlet passages 78A, 78B. The air then flows through theopenings 84A, 84B and into the distribution layer 86A, 86B. The air canthen be directed through the covering 74 to a space adjacent to thefront surface 48 of the backrest 34 or the top surface 50 of the seat32.

As will be described below, the climate control system 36 can also be toremove air, which is adjacent to the front surface 48 of the backrest 34and/or the top surface 50 of the seat 32. In one arrangement, the aircan be withdrawn through the covering 74 and into the distributionlayers 86A, 86B. The air can then be withdrawn through the openings,distribution passages and/or outlet passages (not shown) provided in theseat 32. In some embodiments described below, conditioned air isdelivered to at least portions of the seat assembly 30 and air isremoved from other portions of the seat assembly 30. For example,conditioned air can be delivered to the distribution passages 82A, 82Bthrough the inlet passages 78A, 78B. The conditioned air then flowsthrough the openings 84A, 84B and into the distribution layer 86A, 86Bwhere it is directed through the covering 74 to a space adjacent to thefront surface 48 of the backrest 34 and/or the top surface 50 of theseat 32. In arrangements described below, air can be subsequently orsimultaneously removed from another set of distribution passages througha set of outlet passages. The air can be withdrawn through the covering74 and into another set of distribution layers.

In some embodiments, the distribution layer from which air is withdrawncan be the same distribution layer 86A, 86B to which conditioned air isdelivered. This can be advantageous in removing conditioned air whichhas been heated, or cooled, by the occupant thus ensuring a constantstream of freshly conditioned air to the occupant. In some embodiments,the distribution layer from which air is withdrawn can be fluidicallyseparated from the distribution layer 86A, 86B. For example, thedistribution layer used for withdrawal of air can be located along orproximate an outer periphery of the seating surfaces (e.g., the seatbolsters such as sides 57, 59, 69, 71, an area proximate the front side64 and/or rear side 66 of the seat portion 32, an area proximate the topside 58 and/or bottom side 60 of the backrest 34).

Given the goal of distributing air through the cushion 72 and along thecovering 74, the distribution systems 76A, 76B for the backrest 34 andthe seat 32 may be modified in several different manners. For example,the shape and/or number of channels 80A, 80B may be modified orcombined. In other embodiments, the scrim 81A, 81B and/or distributionpassages 82A, 82B may be combined and/or replaced with other componentsconfigured for similar functions. In yet another embodiment, a separateinsert may be positioned within the channels 80A, 80B for distributingthe air. See e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,114,771, filed May 25, 2004, theentire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. Inother embodiments, the distribution systems 76A, 76B or portions thereofmay be combined with each other. A spacer fabric or spacer layer canalso be positioned within the channels 80A, 80B in certain arrangements.

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of an example climate control system36 that can be used with or in combination, sub-combinations or inmodifications with the embodiments and arrangements disclosed herein. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the climate control system includes a backthermal module 92A and seat thermal module 92B. As will be explainedbelow, both thermal modules 92A, 92B can be configured to provideconditioned air (and/or to remove air in some embodiments) to thedistribution systems 76A, 76B described above. In this manner, thethermal modules 92A, 92B provide a fluid flow to either warm or cool thefront surface 48 of the backrest 34 and the top surface 50 of the seatportion 32 respectively. The climate control apparatus 36 can providesconditioned air that is either heated or cooled relative to thetemperature of the front surface 48 of the back rest 32 and the topsurface 50 of the seat 32.

In the illustrated embodiment, the thermal modules 92A, 92B can eachinclude a thermoelectric device 94A, 94B for temperature conditioning(i.e. selectively heating or cooling) the fluid flowing through thedevice 94A, 94B. In an arrangement, the thermoelectric device 94A, 94Bis a Peltier thermoelectric module. The illustrated thermal modules 92A,92B can also include a main heat exchanger 96A, 96B for transferring orremoving thermal energy from the fluid flowing through the modules 92A,92B and to the distribution systems 76A, 76B. Such fluid is transferredto the distribution systems 76A, 76B through ducting 98A, 98B (see e.g.,U.S. Publication No. 2006/0087160, published Oct. 25, 2004, which ishereby incorporated by reference herein). The modules 92A, 92B can alsoinclude a secondary or waste heat exchanger 100A, 100B that extends fromthe thermoelectric device 94A, 94B generally opposite the main heatexchanger 96A, 96B. A pumping device 102A, 102B is can be associatedwith each thermal module 92A, 92B for directing fluid over the mainand/or waste heat exchangers 96A, 96B, 100A, 100B. The pumping devices102A, 102B can comprise an electrical fan or blower, such as, forexample, an axial blower and/or radial fan. In the illustratedembodiment, a single pumping device 102A, 102B may be used for both themain and waste heat exchangers 96A, 96B, 100A, 100B. However, it isanticipated that separate pumping devices may be associated with thesecondary and heat exchangers 96A, 96B, 100A, 100B.

It should be appreciated that the thermal modules 92A, 92B describedabove represents only one embodiment of a device that may be used tocondition the air supplied to the distribution systems 76A, 76B. Any ofa variety of differently configured thermal modules may be used toprovide conditioned air. Other examples of thermal modules that may beused are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,223,539, 6,119,463, 5,524,439 or5,626,021, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.Another example of such a thermal module is currently sold under thetrademark Micro-Thermal Module™ by Amerigon, Inc. In another example,the thermal module may comprise a pump device without a thermoelectricdevice for thermally conditioning the air. In such an embodiment, thepumping device may be used to remove or supply air to the distributionsystem 76A, 76B. In yet another embodiment, the thermal modules 92A,92B, may share one or more components (e.g., pumping devices,thermoelectric devices, etc.) with the vehicles general climate controlsystem.

With continued reference to FIG. 4, in operation, fluid in the form ofair can be delivered from the thermal modules 92A, 92B, specificallythrough the main heat exchangers 96A, 96B and through the ducting 98A,98B to the distribution systems 76A, 76B. As described above, the airflows through the passages 82A, 82B, into the openings 84A, 84B and thenalong the distribution layer 86A, 86B and through the covering 74. Inthis manner, conditioned air can be provided to the front surface 48 ofthe backrest 34 and the top surface 50 of the seat 32. Air can also passthrough waste heat exchangers 100A, 100B and out to the surroundings.

In a modified embodiment, air from within the passenger compartment ofthe automobile can be drawn through the covering 74, into thedistribution layer 86A, 86B and through the openings 84A, 84B. The airthen can flow through the distribution passages 82A, 82B, into the inletpassage 78A, 78B and then into the ducting 98A, 98B. In this manner, theclimate control system 36 can provide suction so that air near thesurface of the seat assembly 30 is removed.

A suitable control system can be provided to control the climate controlsystem 36 in response to various control routines and/or user inputs.See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,587,901, filed Jan. 31, 2005, the entirecontents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

In some embodiments such as that illustrated in FIG. 2, the thermalmodules 92A, 92B can be coupled to the rear side 56 and the bottom side70 of the backrest 34 and seat portion 32, respectively. In someembodiments, the thermal modules 92A, 92B can be integrated within theseat assembly 30 such that at least a portion of the thermal modules92A, 92B are contained within the backrest 34 and seat portion 32,respectively. By integrating the thermal modules 92A, 92B into the seatassembly 30, the amount of ducting and the total size of the assemblycan be significantly reduced.

For purposes of this disclosure, arrows having broken lines reflectairflow towards a waste side of a thermoelectric device and/or wastefluid. Arrows having solid lines reflect airflow towards a main side ofa thermoelectric device and/or conditioned fluid. With reference now toFIG. 5, a schematic view of an embodiment of a climate controlled seatassembly is illustrated in which fluid flow through both the main heatexchanger 96B and the waste heat exchanger 100B attached to thethermoelectric device 94B occurs via a single pumping device 102B. Whilethe embodiment is described with respect to the seat 32 and componentsof the seat 32, it should be understood that the system can also beapplied to the backrest 34 and components of the backrest 34. Withrespect to the main heat exchanger 96B, the pumping device 102B can bedesigned to direct fluid, such as air, from a location that is spacedapart from the surface being cooled or heated through a conduit, such asducting 98B of FIG. 4 and fluid distribution component 128 of FIG. 13including, but not limited to, plenum or bag 130 as shown in FIG. 14,towards the main heat exchanger 96B. In the illustrated embodiment, thepumping device is located on a side opposite of the seat 32 from thesurface that supports the occupant. The conditioned fluid 97B from themain heat exchanger 96B can then be directed via a conduit, such as seatdistribution system 76B, towards the surface to be cooled or heated.With respect to the waste heat exchanger 100B, the pumping device 102Bcan be designed to direct fluid, such as air, from a location that isspaced apart from the surface being cooled or heated through a conduittowards the waste heat exchanger 100B where the waste fluid 101B canthen be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere. As noted above, in theillustrated embodiment, pumping device is located on a side of the seatopposite from the surface that supports the occupant.

As should be appreciated, the fluid passing through both the main heatexchanger 96B and the waste heat exchanger 100B is pulled from alocation spaced apart from the surface being cooled or heated such thatthe fluid passing through both the main heat exchanger 96B and the wasteheat exchanger 100B has not been immediately or recently conditioned bythe heat exchangers. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, air can bepulled on a side of the seat assembly 30 opposite the occupant.Accordingly, the fluid passing through the waste heat exchanger 100B isgenerally fluid at atmospheric conditions or the general conditionswithin the vehicle. Moreover, the only flow of fluid towards or awayfrom the occupant is the flow of conditioned fluid 97B.

With reference now to FIG. 6, a schematic view of an another embodimentof a climate controlled seat assembly 30 is illustrated in which fluidflow through both the main heat exchanger 96B and the waste heatexchanger 100B attached to the thermoelectric device 94B occurs via twoor more pumping devices 102B, 103B. As will be appreciated, this“cross-flow” operation of the climate controlled seat assembly 30 canprovide advantages over a non-“cross-flow” design. While the embodimentis described with respect to the seat 32 and components of the seat 32,it should be understood that the system can also be applied to thebackrest 34 and components of the backrest 34. Moreover the embodimentsdescribed with respect to FIGS. 6-22 can be used in combination with aseat assembly and/or control system described above or a modified seatassembly and/or control system. In addition, as mentioned above, thearrangements of this disclosure may be adapted for use in othervehicles, such as, for example, an airplane, a boat, or the like othersupport assemblies such as, for example, a chair, a sofa, a theaterseat, a mattress, topper for a mattress, and/or an office seat that isused in a place of business and/or residence and/or any other surface onwhich an occupant can be supported and on which thermal conditioning canbe desirable and/or applications where it is desired to cool an enclosedor partially enclosed space, such as, for example, a cupholder or aheated and/or cooled bin

As shown in the illustrated embodiment, pumping device 102B can bedesigned to push air towards main heat exchanger 96B and pumping device103B can be designed to pull air through waste heat exchanger 100B.Similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, with respect to themain heat exchanger 96B, the pumping device 102B can direct fluid, suchas air, from a location that is spaced from the surface beingconditioned (e.g., cooled and/or heated) and/or supporting the occupantsuch that a majority of the fluid has not been immediately conditionedby the thermal module 92B. The pumping device 102B can direct such fluidthrough a conduit, such as ducting 98B of FIG. 4 or fluid distributioncomponent 128 of FIG. 13 including, but not limited to, plenum or bag130 as shown in FIG. 14, towards the main heat exchanger 96B. Theconditioned fluid 97B from the main heat exchanger 96B can then bedirected via a conduit, such as seat distribution system 76B of FIGS.2-3, towards the surface to be cooled or heated. With respect to thewaste heat exchanger 100B, the pumping device 103B can direct fluid,such as air, from a location proximate and/or on a side of the surfacebeing conditioned (e.g., cooled and/or heated) and/or supporting anoccupant through a conduit, such as fluid distribution component 132 ofFIG. 13 including, but not limited to, collection bag 134 of FIG. 15 orplenum 136 of FIG. 16, towards the waste heat exchanger 100B where thewaste fluid 101B can then be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.

As should be appreciated in this embodiment, the fluid passing throughthe waste heat exchanger 100B is withdrawn from a location proximate thesurface being cooled or heated or on a side of the of the supportassembly being cooled or heated and thus such fluid is being withdrawnproximate the occupant and in the illustrated embodiment is transferredthrough at least a portion of the seat 32 before entering the waste heatexchange 100B. For example, in conditioning systems for the seat 32, thefluid for the waste heat exchanger 100B can be withdrawn from the topsurface 50 of the seat 32 or proximate the top surface 50 and then, inthe illustrated embodiment, drawn through a channel extending at leastpartially through or along the seat 32. In conditioning systems for thebackrest 34, the fluid for the waste heat exchange 100B can be withdrawnfrom the front surface 48 of the backrest 34 or proximate the frontsurface 48 and then, in one embodiment, drawn through a then through achannel extending at least partially through or along the backrest 34.This can advantageously enhance the efficiency of the system by makinguse of the air flow through the waste heat exchanger 100B to furtherenhance the comfort of the occupant. For example, by withdrawing airproximate the occupant, one can increase circulation such that air doesnot stagnate around the occupant. This “vent” cooling can be used tosupplement the “active” cooling from the conditioned fluid 97B.

In addition, the air withdrawn from the top surface 50 or front surface48 can be at a lower or higher temperature (depending upon the mode) ascompared to the air beneath the seat and/or a side of the supportassembly opposite the support surface and/or to a side of the supportsurface. For example, it can be the case that the occupant is utilizingHVAC of the vehicle such that the fluid above the seat assembly 30and/or on a side of the seat assembly supporting the occupant is at alower or higher temperature than the temperature of fluid below, to theside and/or behind (e.g., opposite the support surface) the seatassembly 30. It can also be the case that at least a portion of theconditioned fluid 97B can be recirculated. In this manner, thethermoelectric unit can be operated more efficiently. For example, inthe situation where the thermal module 92B is used to direct cooledfluid towards the occupant, the waste heat exchanger 100B will be at ahigher temperature as a result of operation of the thermoelectric device94B. Since the fluid withdrawn from the top surface 50 or the frontsurface 48 can be at a lower temperature than the surrounding fluidspaced from the occupant, use of this cooler fluid can more effectivelyremove heat from the waste heat exchanger 100B. In contrast, had thehigher temperature fluid been used, a greater amount of fluid would havebeen needed to remove heat from the waste heat exchanger 100B to thesame degree (i.e., the pump 103B would need to generate more flow andthus expend more energy). In the situation where the thermal module 92Bis used to direct heated fluid towards the occupant, the waste heatexchanger 100B will be at a lower temperature as a result of operationof the thermoelectric device 94B. Since the fluid withdrawn from the topsurface 50 or the front surface 48 can be at a higher temperature thanthe surrounding fluid spaced from the occupant, use of this hotter fluidcan more effectively heat transfer to the waste heat exchanger 100B. Incontrast, had the lower temperature fluid from the surroundings beenused, a greater amount of fluid would have been needed to transfer heatto the waste heat exchanger 100B to the same degree (i.e., the pump 103Bwould need to generate more flow and thus expend more energy).

It can also be advantageous in certain embodiments, particularly thosein which the thermal conditioning system is used to create a cooledconditioned fluid 97B, to have the pumping device 103B positioneddownstream of the waste heat exchanger 100B. Due to inherentinefficiencies in pumping device 103B, there can be an increase intemperature in the fluid stream. By positioning the pumping device 103Bdownstream of the waste heat exchanger 100B, this increase intemperature does not detrimentally affect the ability to remove heatfrom the waste heat exchanger 100B.

In some embodiments, the location from which fluid is withdrawn can beadjacent the location at which conditioned fluid 97B is beingintroduced. In some embodiments, the location from which fluid iswithdrawn can be partially spaced apart from the location at whichconditioned fluid 97B is being introduced but still be on the same sideof the seat assembly 30 or support assembly (e.g., bed, sofa and/orchair) as the occupant. For example, the fluid can be withdrawn alongthe outer periphery of the seat 32 and backrest 34, such as the sidebolsters of the seat 32 such as sides 69, 71 and backrest 34 such assides 57, 59, whereas conditioned fluid 97B can be introduced at acentral location of the seat 32 such as the seat area 40 and a centrallocation of the backrest 34 such as the lumbar region 62. Furtherseparation can potentially enhance the efficiency of the system byreducing the likelihood that a substantial amount of conditioned fluid97B is removed before cooling or heating the occupant.

It should be appreciated that the embodiment described above withreference to FIG. 6 can be used in other types of support assembliesand/or applications and need not be used in combination with theadditional embodiments described herein.

FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic view of another embodiment of a climatecontrolled seat assembly 30 in which components of the thermal module92B are contained within the seat 32, which can be used alone or incombination with the embodiments described above. As with otherembodiments described herein, this embodiment can also be extended toother application and support assemblies, such as, for example, beds,topper members, and/or chairs. As will be appreciated, integration ofcomponents of the thermal module 92B can provide advantages includingcompact packaging and increased efficiency. While the embodiment isdescribed with respect to the seat 32 and components of the seat 32, itshould be understood that the system can also be applied to the backrest34 and components of the backrest 34. As shown in the illustratedembodiment, the thermoelectric device 94B, main side heat exchanger 96Band the waste side heat exchange 100B are contained within the seat 32.Conditioned fluid 97B passing through the main side heat exchanger 96Bcan be directed towards the occupant whereas fluid passing through thewaste heat exchanger 100B can be pulled from around the occupant anddirected away from the occupant.

It should be appreciated that the embodiment described above withreference to FIG. 7 can be used in other types of support assembliesand/or applications and need not be used in combination with theadditional embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 8-10 illustrate another embodiment of a thermal module 92B havinga main heat exchanger 96B and a waste heat exchanger 100B oriented suchthat the direction of flow through the heat exchangers 96B, 100B areoblique or substantially perpendicular. With reference first to FIG. 8,the internal components of the thermal module 92B are illustrated. Asshown in the illustrated embodiment, the main heat exchanger 96B ispositioned on a first side of a thermoelectric device (not shown) andthe waste heat exchanger 100B is positioned on a second side of thethermoelectric device. Wiring 95B can be used to provide power tooperate the thermoelectric device. Insulating material 103B can beincluded around both the main heat exchanger 96B and the waste heatexchange 100B to reduce heat transfer in undesired directions.Additional materials and/or layers can also be included, such assemi-permeable or impermeable layers, to reduce the likelihood of fluidleakage into undesired locations.

With reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, a thermal module 92B is illustrateddisposed within a housing 116B. The housing 116B can include a flange118B around a top side 106B of the thermal module 92B which canfacilitate attachment of the thermal module 92B to the seat assembly 30.In some embodiments, the housing 116B can be made of a durable materialto reduce the likelihood that the internal components of the thermalmodule 92B are damaged during use and/or assembly. In some embodiments,the housing 116B can be made of an insulating material to further reduceheat transfer in undesired directions.

In the illustrated embodiment, the thermal module 92B has a rectangularshape with a bottom side 104B, a top side 106B, a front side 108B, arear side 110B, a left side 112B and a right side 114B. Fewer or greaternumber of sides can be used and the thermal module 92B can have anyshape as desired. The main heat exchanger 96B can be oriented such thatfluid flows into the main heat exchanger 96B through the bottom side104B and conditioned fluid 97B exits from the opposite, top side 106B.The waste heat exchanger 100B can be oriented such that fluid flows intothe waste heat exchanger 100B from the left side 112B and exits from theopposite, right side 114B. Accordingly, flow through the main side heatexchanger 96B can be generally orthogonal to flow through the waste heatexchanger 100B. In some embodiments, the direction of flow through themain heat exchanger 96B and the waste heat exchanger 100B can be lessthan 90 degrees. For example, flow through the main heat exchanger 96Band the waste heat exchanger 100B can be between about 10 degrees toabout 80 degrees, between about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, betweenabout 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, between about 40 degrees to about45 degrees, any subrange of angles within these ranges, or any anglewithin these ranges. This can advantageously allow for more compactpackaging of the thermal module 92B. Moreover, although the illustratedembodiment illustrates the flow through the heat exchangers 96B, 100B asbeing linear, for example from the bottom side 104B to the top side 106Bor from the left side 112B to the right side 114B, it is contemplatedthat the heat exchangers 96B, 100B can be designed to redirect the fluidthrough the thermal module 92B. For example, fluid can enter the heatexchanger, such as heat exchangers 96B, 100B, from the bottom side 104Band exit from the left side 112B.

It should be appreciated that the embodiment described above withreference to FIGS. 8-10 can be used in other types of support assembliesand/or applications and need not be used in combination with theadditional embodiments described herein

FIGS. 11A-C illustrate another climate controlled seat assembly 30 withportions of cushion 72 and covering material 74 removed to expose thethermal modules 92B contained therein. While the embodiment is describedwith respect to the seat 32 and components of the seat 32, it should beunderstood that the system can also be applied to the backrest 34 andcomponents of the backrest 34. In addition, as described above, thisembodiment can also be used in other types of support assemblies andother cooling/heating applications. As shown in the illustratedembodiment, the thermal modules 92B can be distributed along the seat 32at various locations. Any number of thermal modules 92B can bedistributed along the seat 32. For example, the seat 32 can include one,two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or an even greaternumber of thermal modules 92B. Moreover, the thermal modules 92B can bedistributed along the seat 32 in any pattern as desired. As shown in theillustrated embodiment, a first and second thermal module 92B arepositioned along a front portion of the seat 32 whereas a third andfourth thermal module 92B are positioned rearward of the first andsecond thermal modules. In some embodiments, such as those illustratedin FIGS. 11A-C, an even number of thermal modules 92B can be used. Inother embodiments, an odd number of thermal modules 92B can be used.Distribution of a plurality of thermal modules 92B along the seat 32 canadvantageously enhance the control over temperature distribution acrossthe top surface 50 of the seat 32. For example, one can program thethermal modules 92B such that certain areas of the seat 32 are heated orcooled to a lesser extent than other areas of the seat 32. Moreover,distribution of a plurality of thermal modules 92B can enhance theefficiency of thermal conditioning system. For example, due to thereduced distance from the point of cooling to the occupant, there areless thermal losses.

In some embodiments, the thermal modules 92B can be positioned proximatelocations of the covering material 74 on which the occupant will likelybe in contact, for example, the thigh area 42 of the seat 32. This canadvantageously reduce the amount of ducting to direct the conditionedfluid 97B towards the occupant. By directing the conditioned fluid 97Btowards the occupant, the effects of the conditioned fluid 97B will bemore readily apparent to the occupant. This can beneficially reduce thetotal energy usage to achieve the same conditioning effect. As shown inthe illustrated embodiment, the conditioned fluid 97B can be directedvertically towards the occupant whereas the fluid 101B for the wasteheat exchanger 100B can be withdrawn from one or more openings 122proximate the occupant into the channel 123.

As illustrated in FIG. 11A, in some embodiments, such openings 122 canbe positioned along crevices of the seat 32. Such crevices can bebetween the thigh area 42 and the bolsters such as sides 69, 71 of theseat 32. Such crevices can be positioned closer to the occupant suchthat conditioned air 97B is more likely to be withdrawn into the opening122 and exhausted. This can advantageously reduce the likelihood ofstagnant, conditioned fluid 97B thus ensuring a fresh supply ofconditioned fluid 97B to the occupant. In conditioning systems for thebackrest 34, such crevices can be between the lumber region 60 and thebolsters such as sides 57, 59 of the backrest 34.

As illustrated in FIG. 11B, in some embodiments, such openings 122 canbe positioned further outboard, such as along the bolsters of the seat32 or backrest 34 as illustrated in FIG. 11B, or further outward towardsthe outer periphery of the bolsters. The opening 122 can be formed as agroove or channel cut into the cushion 72 to direct the withdrawn airtowards channel 123 and into the thermal module 92B. Any shape of grooveor channel can be used as desired. A longer groove can result in agreater area from which air is withdrawn whereas a shorter groove canresult in more concentrated areas. In some embodiments, more than asingle groove or channel can be directed towards a single thermal module92B. The withdrawn fluid can then be directed away from the top surface50 of the seat 32 or the front surface 48 of the backrest 34 such thatthe waste fluid has little to no effect on the conditioned seat assembly30.

It should be appreciated that the embodiment described above withreference to FIGS. 11A-C can be used in other types of supportassemblies and/or applications and need not be used in combination withthe additional embodiments described herein

FIGS. 12A-C illustrate another embodiment of a climate controlled seatassembly 30 with portions of cushion 72 and covering material 74 removedto expose the thermal modules 92B contained therein. As illustrated inFIGS. 12A-C, in some embodiments, a spacer fabric 125 can be includedbetween layer 120 and a component above layer 120. The spacer fabric 125can be designed to maintain separation between the layer 120 and thecomponent above the layer 120, such as cushion 72, such that a fluidchamber that can allow lateral and/or upward movement of fluid is formedbetween the layer 120 and the component. The spacer fabric or layer 125can be formed of a variety of materials such as a honey-combed foammaterial, material with channels and passages formed therein, 3D spacerfabrics, mesh netting fabrics, spacing plates, etc. As an example, onepreferred material is sold under the trade name 3MESH® and iscommercially available from Mueller Textil GmbH, Germany or MuellerTextiles, Inc., Rhode Island, USA. Other preferred spacing devices andspacing plates are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,777,320, the entirety ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

In some embodiments, the opening from which the conditioned fluid 97B isexpelled can include ducting 127. The ducting 127 can be attached to theflange 118B using, for example, an adhesive or other bonding agent tocreate a relatively leak-free seal at the connection between the flange118B and the ducting 127. In some embodiments, ducting 127 can be madefrom a semi-impermeable or impermeable material such that a relativelyleak-free seal is achieved. Moreover, the ducting 127 can be designedsuch that there is relatively little heat transfer from the conditionedfluid 97B to fluid contained in the chamber formed by the spacer fabric125.

As illustrated in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the ducting 127 can extend from theflange 118B and beyond the spacer fabric 125 such that the conditionedfluid 97B can wholly bypass the chamber formed by the spacer fabric 125.As illustrated in FIG. 12C, in some embodiments, the ducting 127 canextend from the flange 118B and only partially into the spacer fabric125 such that the conditioned fluid 97B can slightly mix with fluidscontained in the chamber formed by the spacer fabric 125. The ducting127 can be designed such that it directs the conditioned fluid 97Btowards or into one or more holes, such as hole 129, in the cushioning72 or any other component above the spacer fabric 125.

In some embodiments, the chamber formed by the spacer fabric 125 can bein fluid communication with one or more holes, such as holes 131, in thecushioning 72 or any other component above the spacer fabric 125. Thechamber formed by the spacer fabric 125 can also be in fluidcommunication with the openings 122 and/or channel 123 such that fluidwithin the chamber can be withdrawn through the waste heat exchanger100B and carried away from the conditioned surface such as top surface50 of the seat 32. In some embodiments, the holes 131 can be positionedproximate the holes 129. This can be advantageous in ensuring a constantstream of freshly conditioned fluid 97B adjacent the conditionedsurface. Of course, the holes 131 can be positioned further from theholes 129 to reduce recycling of conditioned fluid 97B.

It should be appreciated that the embodiment described above withreference to FIGS. 12A-D can be used in other types of supportassemblies and/or applications and need not be used in combination withthe additional embodiments described herein. With reference now to FIG.13, in order to reduce mixing of the conditioned fluid 97B and the wastefluid 101B, flange 118B of the thermal module 92B can be placed over alayer 120 thereby forming a waste chamber 124 and a conditioned chamber126. The flange 118B can be attached to the layer 120 such that arelatively leak-free seal between the flange 118B and layer 120 isachieved. The layer 120 can be a semi-permeable or impermeable layer toreduce the transfer of fluids from the waste chamber 124 to theconditioned chamber 126. Layer 120 can also be an insulating layer toreduce heat transfer across the layer 120 and thus reduce the heattransfer between the waste chamber 124 and the conditioned chamber 126.

The conditioned chamber 124 can be placed in fluidic communication withanother layer, such as a cushion 72 and/or distribution layer 86B. Adistribution layer 86B can advantageously further distribute theconditioned fluid 97B from the conditioned chamber 124 across thecovering 74 thereby reducing the likelihood of significant temperaturedifferentials across the covering 74. Although the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 13 includes a single distribution layer 86B, itshould be understood that each conditioned chamber 126 can have its owndistribution layer 86B which can be fluidically separated fromdistribution layers of other conditioned chambers 126. This can beadvantageous if one does not desire conditioned fluid 97B from onechamber 126 to mix with conditioned fluid 97B from another chamber 126.This may be particularly beneficial, for example, when differenttemperatures are desired across different areas of the seat surface. Insome embodiments, one or more of the conditioned chambers 126 can befluidically coupled to one or more fluid distribution components 128.The fluid distribution component 128, such as a plenum or bag 130 (asshown in FIG. 14), can be used to distribute fluid to one or more mainheat exchangers 96B. This can advantageously reduce the number ofpumping devices 102B used in the system. For example, in someembodiments, a single pumping device 102B can be used for a plurality ofthermal modules 92B. In some embodiments, the fluid distributioncomponent 128 can be positioned opposite the occupant. For example, thefluid distribution component 128 can be positioned under the seat 32opposite the top surface 50 or behind backrest 34 opposite the frontsurface 48.

The waste chamber 124 can be in fluid communication with openings 122and channel 123. The fluid withdrawn from the openings 122 can be usedfor heat transfer to the waste heat exchanger 100B. Similar toconditioned chambers 126, in some embodiments the one or more of thewaste chambers 124 can be fluidically coupled to one or more fluiddistribution component 132. Fluid distribution component 132 can be usedto collect and withdraw fluid from one or more waste heat exchangers100B. In some embodiments, fluid distribution component 132 can be acollection bag 134 (as shown in FIG. 15) or a plenum 136 (as shown inFIG. 16). This can advantageously reduce the number of pumping devices103B used in the system. For example, in some embodiments, a singlepumping device 103B can be used. In some embodiments, the fluiddistribution component 132 can be positioned opposite the occupant. Forexample, the fluid distribution component 132 can be positioned underthe seat 32 opposite the top surface 50 or behind backrest 34 oppositethe front surface 48.

It should be appreciated that the embodiment described above withreference to FIGS. 13 and/or 14-16 can be used in other types of supportassemblies and/or applications and need not be used in combination withthe additional embodiments described herein

With reference now to FIG. 17, an embodiment of a bottom side of theseat 32 is illustrated showing a configuration of holes 133 throughwhich fluid to be conditioned, via main heat exchanger 94B can bereceived for delivery to the conditioned surface and holes 135 throughwhich waste fluid 112 b can be expelled away from the conditionedsurface. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the bottom portion ofthe seat can include one or more gaskets 137 positioned around the holes133, 135. The gasket 137 can interface with a corresponding surface onanother component to provide an additional seal and reduce leakage inundesired directions. In some embodiments, the gasket 137 can be madefrom a foam, a rubber, or any material as desired.

With reference now to FIG. 18, a top side of a frame 73 for a seatassembly 30 is illustrated showing a configuration of holes 139 throughwhich fluid to be conditioned, via main heat exchanger 94B can bereceived for delivery to the conditioned and holes 141 through whichwaste fluid 112 b can be expelled away from the conditioned surface. Insome embodiments, holes 133 can be in fluid communication with holes 139and holes 135 can be in fluid communication with holes 141. As shown inthe illustrated embodiment, the top side of the frame 73 can include oneor more gaskets 143 positioned around the holes 139, 141. The gasket 141can interface with a corresponding surface, such as gasket 137, toprovide an additional seal and reduce leakage in undesired directions.In some embodiments, the gasket 141 can be made from a foam, a rubber,or any material as desired.

With reference now to FIGS. 19A-C, a bottom side of the frame 73 isillustrated which includes both a fluid distribution component 128 forthe main heat exchanger 94B and a fluid distribution component 132 forthe waste heat exchanger 134. As shown in the illustrated embodiment,the fluid distribution components 128, 132 are integrally formed as asingle bag with the fluid distribution components 128, 132 beingseparated via seams or welds. As shown more clearly in FIG. 19B, thepumping device 102B can direct fluid into the fluid distributioncomponent 128 and the pumping device 103B can direct waste fluid out ofthe fluid distribution component 132. The fluid distribution component128 can be in fluid communication with holes 139 while the fluiddistribution component 132 can be in fluid communication with holes 141.To reduce the likelihood that the fluid distribution component 132collapses due to negative pressure, a structural member can be includedwithin the fluid distribution component 132. In some embodiments, thestructure member can be similar to the spacer fabric 125. In someembodiments, the fluid distribution component 132 and/or fluiddistribution component 128 can be manufactured from a rigid material.This can reduce the potential of damage to the fluid distributioncomponents 128, 132. Moreover, this can reduce the likelihood that fluiddistribution component 132 collapses as a result of negative pressure.

With reference now to FIGS. 20A and 20B, a bottom side of the frame 73is illustrated which includes both a fluid distribution component 128for the main heat exchanger 94B and a fluid distribution component 132for the waste heat exchanger 134. As shown in the illustratedembodiment, the fluid distribution components 128, 132 are separatelyformed as two bags with the fluid distribution components. Such anembodiment can be beneficial to reduce the likelihood of leakage fromthe fluid distribution component 132 to the fluid distribution component128 or vice versa. The pumping device 102B can direct fluid into thefluid distribution component 128 and the pumping device 103B can directwaste fluid out of the fluid distribution component 132. The fluiddistribution component 128 can be in fluid communication with holes 139while the fluid distribution component 132 can be in fluid communicationwith holes 141. To reduce the likelihood that the fluid distributioncomponent 132 collapses due to negative pressure, a structural membercan be included within the fluid distribution component 132. In someembodiments, the structure member can be similar to the spacer fabric125. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, there can be some overlapbetween the two fluid distribution components 128, 132.

It should be appreciated that the embodiment described above withreference to FIGS. 17-20B can be used in other types of supportassemblies and/or applications and need not be used in combination withthe additional embodiments described herein

With reference now to FIG. 21, a schematic view of an embodiment of aclimate controlled seat assembly 30 is illustrated in which fluid flowthrough both the main heat exchanger 96B and the waste heat exchanger100B attached to the thermoelectric device 94B occurs via one or moredual-mode pumping device 138B. While the embodiment is described withrespect to the seat 32 and components of the seat 32, it should beunderstood that the system can also be applied to the backrest 34 andcomponents of the backrest 34. In the illustrated embodiment, thedual-mode pumping device 138B can be designed to simultaneously push airtowards main heat exchanger 96B and pull air through waste heatexchanger 100B. With respect to the main heat exchanger 96B, thedual-mode pumping device 138B can direct fluid, such as air, from alocation that is spaced from the surface being conditioned (e.g., cooledand/or heated) and/or supporting the occupant such that a majority ofthe fluid has not been immediately conditioned by the thermal module92B. The dual-mode pumping device 138B can direct such fluid through aconduit, such as ducting 98B, towards the main heat exchanger 96B. Theconditioned fluid 97B from the main heat exchanger 96B can then bedirected via a conduit, such as seat distribution system 76B, towardsthe surface to be cooled or heated. With respect to the waste heatexchanger 100B, the pumping device 103B can direct fluid, such as air,from a location proximate the surface being cooled or heated through aconduit towards the waste heat exchanger 100B where the waste fluid 101Bcan then be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.

As illustrated in FIG. 22, the dual-mode pumping device 138B can haveone or more rotors 140B having a plurality of fins, such as an impeller,for creating a fluid flow through the pumping device 138B. The rotor140B can be powered by a single motor although a greater number ofmotors can be used. The impeller 140B can pull fluid, such as air,through a first inlet 142B and a second inlet 144B and expel the fluidthrough a first outlet 146B and a second outlet 148B. The first inlet142B and first outlet 146B can be separated from the second inlet 144Band second outlet 148B via a component such as a plate 150. Preferably,the plate is positioned about the impeller such that a generallyleak-free seal is achieved to reduce the likelihood of mixing of fluidsthereby reducing efficiency of the system.

When used in conjunction with the system described in FIG. 21, thesecond inlet 144B can pull fluid from the surrounding area and expelsaid fluid, via the second outlet 148B, into the main heat exchanger 96Bwhereas the first inlet 142B can pull waste fluid 101B from the wasteheat exchanger 100B and expel the waste fluid 101B, via the first outlet146B, to the surrounding area. In order to reduce the likelihood that asignificant amount of waste fluid 101B is reintroduced into the systemvia second inlet 144B, it can be advantageous to increase the distancebetween the second inlet 144B and the first outlet 146B or include ashroud around the second inlet 144B and/or first outlet 146B.

It should be appreciated that the embodiment described above withreference to FIGS. 21-22 can be used in other types of supportassemblies and/or applications and need not be used in combination withthe additional embodiments described herein.

With reference now to FIG. 23, a schematic view of an embodiment of aclimate controlled seat assembly 30 is illustrated in which climatecontrol systems are provided for both the seat 32 and the backrest 34.As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a first dual-mode pumping device138B controls fluid flow through the seat 32 and a second dual-modepumping device 138A controls fluid flow through the backrest 34. In theillustrated embodiment, the dual-mode pumping devices 138A, 138B can bedesigned to simultaneously push air towards main heat exchanger attachedto a thermoelectric module and pull air through a waste heat exchangerattached to the thermoelectric module. As will be discussed in furtherdetail in connection with FIGS. 24-27, the dual-mode pumping devices138A, 138B can be a self-contained unit having one or morethermoelectric modules, one or more main heat exchangers, and/or one ormore waste heat exchangers contained therein. This can beneficiallyimprove packaging of the components and can facilitate assembly andmaintenance of the climate control system. Although the climatecontrolled seat assembly 30 described herein illustrates a singledual-mode pumping device for each of the seat 32 and the backrest 34, insome embodiments a greater number of dual-mode pumping devices can beprovided for one or both of the seat 32 and the backrest 34. Moreover,in some embodiments, the seat 32 or the backrest 34 may not be providedwith a dual-mode pumping device.

With respect to the main heat exchanger, the dual-mode pumping devices138A, 138B can direct fluid, such as air, from a location that is spacedfrom the surface being conditioned (e.g., cooled and/or heated) and/orsupporting the occupant such that a majority of the fluid has not beenimmediately conditioned by the thermoelectric device. The dual-modepumping devices 138A, 138B can direct such fluid through a conduit, suchas ducting through the seat 32 and/or the backrest 34, towards the mainheat exchanger. The conditioned fluid 97A, 97B from the main heatexchangers of the dual-mode pumping devices 138A, 138B can then bedirected via a conduit, such as the seat distribution systems describedherein, towards the surface to be cooled or heated. With respect to thewaste heat exchangers of the dual-mode pumping devices 138A, 138B, thedual-mode pumping devices 138A, 138B can direct fluid, such as air, froma location proximate the surface being cooled or heated through aconduit towards the waste heat exchangers where the waste fluid 101A,101B can then be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.

With reference now to FIGS. 24-27, various views of an embodiment of adual-mode pumping device 138B are provided. The dual-mode pumping device138B can include a housing 139B which can contain components of thedual-mode pumping device 138B such as one or more rotors 140B forcreating fluid flow through the dual-mode pumping device 138B, one ormore motors 141B for powering the rotors 140B, one or morethermoelectric devices 94B, one or more main heat exchangers 96B, and/orone or more waste heat exchangers 100B. As shown in the illustratedembodiment, the dual-mode pumping device 138B can include two rotors140B coupled to a single motor 141B, a single thermoelectric device 94B,a single main side heat exchanger 96B, and a single waste side heatexchanger 100B. In some embodiments, the dual-mode pumping device caninclude a separate motor coupled to each rotor. Moreover, the dual-modepumping device 94B can include two or more thermoelectric devices 94B,two or more main side heat exchangers 96B, and/or two or more waste sideheat exchangers 100B.

As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the rotors 140B can include aplurality of fins, such as an impeller, for creating fluid flow throughthe housing 139B of the dual-mode pumping device 138B. The dual-modepumping device 138B can include a first inlet 142B on a first side ofthe housing 139B and a second inlet 144B on a separate side of thehousing 139B. For example, the first inlet 142B can be positioned on atop side of the housing 139B and the second inlet 144B can be positionedon a bottom side of the housing 139B. The rotors 140B can pull fluid,such as air, through a first inlet 142B and a second inlet 144B andexpel the fluid through a first outlet 146B and a second outlet 148Brespectively. The first inlet 142B and first outlet 146B can beseparated from the second inlet 144B and second outlet 148B via acomponent such as a plate 150B. Preferably, the plate 150B is alsopositioned about the rotors 140B such that a generally leak-free seal isachieved to reduce the likelihood of mixing of fluids which couldthereby reduce efficiency of the system.

As shown in the illustrated embodiment, fluid pulled through the secondinlet 144B can pass through ducting 98B formed through the housing 139Band pass through the main side heat exchanger 96B prior to beingexpelled through the second outlet 148B. Accordingly, fluid passingthrough the second inlet 144B can be converted into a conditioned fluid97B prior to exiting the second outlet 148B. Similarly, fluid pulledthrough the first inlet 142B can pass through ducting 99B formed throughthe housing 139B and pass through the waste side heat exchanger 100Bprior to being expelled through the first outlet 146B. Accordingly,fluid passing through the first inlet 142B can be converted into a wastefluid 101B prior to exiting the first outlet 146B. In order to reducethe likelihood that a significant amount of waste fluid 101B isreintroduced into the system via second inlet 144B, it can beadvantageous to increase the distance between the second inlet 144B andthe first outlet 146B or include a shroud around the second inlet 144Band/or first outlet 146B.

The flow through the second inlet 144B and/or second outlet 148B can begenerally orthogonal to flow through the ducting 98B. The flow throughthe second inlet 144B and the second inlet 148B can be generallyparallel. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the second inlet 144Bcan be positioned on a bottom side of the housing 139B and the secondoutlet 148B can be positioned on a top side of the housing 139B. In theillustrated embodiment, fluid can flow through ducting 98B from a frontside to a rear side of the housing 139B.

The flow through the first inlet 142B and/or first outlet 146B can begenerally orthogonal to flow through the ducting 99B. The flow throughthe first inlet 142B and the first outlet 146B can be generallyorthogonal. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the first inlet 142Bcan be positioned on a top side of the housing 139B and the secondoutlet 146B can be positioned on a left side and/or right side of thehousing 139B. In the illustrated embodiment, fluid can flow throughducting 99B from a front side to a rear side of the housing 139B.

While fluid flow through the inlets 142B, 144B, outlets 146B, 148B, andducting 98B, 99B has been described above as being generally orthogonalto each other, it is contemplated that other angles can also be used. Insome embodiments, the angle formed by the directions of fluid flow canbe less than 90 degrees. For example, the angle formed by the directionsof fluid flow can be between about 10 degrees to about 80 degrees,between about 20 degrees to about 70 degrees, between about 30 degreesto about 60 degrees, between about 40 degrees to about 45 degrees, anysubrange of angles within these ranges, or any angle within theseranges. In some embodiments, the angle formed by the directions of fluidflow can be greater than 90 degrees. For example, the angle formed bythe directions of fluid flow can be between about 100 degrees to about170 degrees, between about 110 degrees to about 160 degrees, betweenabout 120 degrees to about 150 degrees, between about 135 degrees toabout 140 degrees, any subrange of angles within these ranges, or anyangle within these ranges.

Although only dual-mode pumping device 138B has been described,dual-mode pumping device 138A can include the same or similar featuresas dual-mode pumping device 138B and/or any of the variations describedabove in connection with dual-mode pumping device 138B. Accordingly,similar components of the dual-mode pumping device 138A will bereferenced in this application with an “A” suffix following thereference numeral.

FIGS. 28-34 illustrate another embodiment of a climate controlled seatassembly 30. While the embodiment is described with respect to the seat32 and components of the seat 32, it should be understood that thesystem can also be applied to the backrest 34 and components of thebackrest 34. In addition, as described above, this embodiment can alsobe used in other types of support assemblies and other cooling/heatingapplications.

With reference first to FIG. 28, an embodiment of a seat 32 isillustrated with a covering removed thereby exposing cushion 72. Layersof the cushion 72 have also been removed to expose structures underlyingthese layers. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the seat 32 caninclude a fluid distribution system 76B through which conditioned air97B from a thermal module can be delivered to the seated occupant. Thefluid distribution system 76B can be positioned at or proximate a thigharea 42 of the seat 32. The seat 32 can include another fluiddistribution system 77B through which fluid can be gathered anddistributed towards the waste heat exchanger 100B to generate the wastefluid 101B to be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere. The fluiddistribution system 77B can be positioned at or proximate a central areaand/or seat area 40 of the seat 32. Accordingly, in the illustratedembodiment, conditioned air 97B can be delivered to the occupant at orproximate the thigh area 42 and fluid can be gathered and pulled at orproximate a central area and/or seat area 40. It is also contemplatedthat this arrangement can be reversed such that conditioned air 97B canbe delivered to the occupant at or proximate the central area 40 andfluid can be gathered and pulled at or proximate the thigh area 42. Insome embodiments, both fluid distribution systems 76B, 77B can be usedto deliver conditioned air 97B to the occupant or can be used to gatherand pull fluid towards the waste heat exchanger 100B to generate thewaste fluid 101B to be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.

As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the fluid distribution system76B can include a passage 78B through which conditioned air 97B from athermal module can pass. The passage 78B can be in fluid communicationwith channels 80B. The channels 80B can advantageously distribute theconditioned air 97B over a wider area of the seat 32 such that thecooling or heating effects of the conditioned air 97B is spread overthis wider area as opposed to being concentrated at the passage 78B. Thechannels 80B can extend laterally outward towards the sides 69, 71 ofthe seat 32 and/or can extend in a frontward/rearward direction towardsthe front side 64 and/or rear side 66 of the seat 32.

The fluid distribution system 77B can have a construction similar tothat of fluid distribution system 76B. As shown in the illustratedembodiment, the fluid distribution system 77B can include a passage 79Bthrough which fluid can be gathered and pulled towards a waste heatexchanger 100B to generate the waste fluid 101B to be exhausted to thesurrounding atmosphere. The passage 79B can be in fluid communicationwith channels 123B. The channels 123B can advantageously allow fluid tobe pulled over a wider area of the seat 32 such that the fluid flow isspread over this wider area as opposed to being concentrated at thepassage 79B. The channels 123B can extend laterally outward towards thesides 69, 71 of the seat 32 and/or can extend in a frontward/rearwarddirection towards the front side 64 and/or rear side 66 of the seat 32.For example, the channels 123B can include a portion 85B which ispositioned further rearward of a central area of the seat 32.

With reference next to FIG. 29, one or both of the fluid distributionsystems 76B, 77B can include a layer 120 positioned between the channels80B, 123B and the cushion 72. As shown in the illustrated embodiment,the layer 120 can be positioned over the passages 78B, 79B. Such anarrangement can beneficially maintain a gap between the channels 80B,123B and an overlying layer, such as the cushion 72. This can reduce thelikelihood that the overlying layer collapses onto the passages 78B, 79Band/or portions of the channels 80B, 123B which could potentiallyrestrict flow through the fluid distribution systems 76B, 77B. In someembodiments, the layer 120 can be formed from a material having somedegree of flexibility such as a thin plastic film. The layer 120 can bea semi-permeable or impermeable layer to reduce the transfer of fluidsfrom directly above the passages 78B, 79B. Layer 120 can also be aninsulating or semi-insulating layer to reduce heat transfer across thelayer 120.

With reference next to FIG. 30, a portion or the entirety of thechannels 80B, 123B can be filled with an air permeable material, such asa spacer fabric, that can provide support for the occupant while stillallowing the flow of air through the material. As shown in theillustrated embodiment, a spacer fabric 125 is positioned within aportion of the channel 123B, including portion 85B, of the fluiddistribution system 77B. The spacer fabric 125 can be designed tomaintain separation between the bottoms of the channel 123B as well aslayer 120 and components above the channel 123B and/or layer 120, suchas cushion 72. This can beneficially maintain a fluid chamber that canallow lateral and/or upward movement of fluid between the channel 123B,layer 120, and the components above channel 123B and layer 120 even whenan occupant is seated on the seat 32 which would tend to collapse thesechambers and/or when the channel 123B is subject to pressure belowatmospheric which would also tend to collapse these chambers.

In the illustrated embodiment, no spacer fabric 125 is positioned withinthe fluid distribution system 76B. Due to the existence of positivepressure (i.e., pressure above atmospheric pressures) within the fluiddistribution system 76B, there is a lower likelihood of collapse of thechambers even when subject to forces from a seated occupant. Moreover,the amount of forces applied to the thigh area 42 is generally lowerthan the amount of forces applied to the seat area 40 of a seat therebyfurther reducing the likelihood of the chambers collapsing as comparedto fluid distribution system 77B. In some embodiments, a spacer fabric125 can be positioned in portions or the entirety of channels 80B of thefluid distribution system 76B.

With reference next to FIG. 31, a cushion 72 can be positioned over thefluid distribution systems 76B, 77B to provide support for the occupantand to reduce the likelihood that the channels 80B, 123B will affect thecomfort of the occupant. The cushion 72 can include one or more openings129B in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system 76B forallowing conditioned air 97B to pass through the cushion 72 and towardsthe seated occupant. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, theopenings 129B can be positioned at or adjacent the general location ofan occupant's thighs when seated on the seat 32. By positioning theopenings 129B in this manner, the conditioned fluid 97B can beconcentrated in areas at or proximate the occupant such that the effectsof the conditioned fluid 97B will be more readily apparent to theoccupant. This can beneficially reduce the total energy usage to achievethe same conditioning effect. While the illustrated embodiment includeseight openings 129B positioned generally around an area at or adjacentthe general location of an occupant's thighs, other arrangements ofopenings 129B, including the use of a fewer or greater number ofopenings 129B, are contemplated.

The cushion 72 can include one or more openings 131B in fluidcommunication with the fluid distribution system 77B through which fluidcan be gathered and distributed towards the waste heat exchanger 100B togenerate the waste fluid 101B to be exhausted to the surroundingatmosphere. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the openings 131Bcan be positioned at or adjacent the general location of an occupant'sthighs when seated on the seat 32. By positioning the openings 131B inthis manner, the withdrawn fluid can be concentrated in areas at orproximate the occupant such that the effects of the withdrawn fluid willbe more readily apparent to the occupant. This can beneficially reducethe total energy usage to achieve the same effect. While the illustratedembodiment includes eight openings 131B positioned generally around anarea at or adjacent the general location of an occupant's thighs, otherarrangements of openings 131B, including the use of a fewer or greaternumber of openings 131B, are contemplated. A schematic, cross-sectionalview of a seat 32 is illustrated in FIG. 34.

With reference next to FIG. 32, an underside of seat 32 is illustratedshowing a location of passages 78B, 79B. With reference next to FIG. 33,a pumping device, such as dual-mode pumping device 138B can be attachedto the underside of a seat frame 73 used to support the cushion 72 andother portions of the seat 32. As shown in the illustrated embodiment,the dual-mode pumping device 138B can include a first inlet (e.g., 142Bof FIG. 25) positioned in fluid communication with passage 79B such thatfluid can be pulled through passage 79B, into housing 139B and through awaste side heat exchanger (e.g., 100B of FIG. 25), where a waste fluid101B can be generated and expelled out of the housing 139B. In someembodiments, the waste fluid 101B can be expelled towards the undersideof the seat frame 73. The dual-mode pumping device 138B can include asecond inlet 144B with a second outlet (e.g., 148B of FIG. 25)positioned in fluid communication with passage 78B such that fluid canbe pulled through second inlet 144B, into housing 139B and through amain side heat exchanger (e.g., 96B of FIG. 25), where a conditionedfluid (e.g., 97B of FIG. 25) can be generated and introduced intopassage 78B where it can be distributed through portions of the seat 32via the fluid distribution system 76B. As shown in the illustratedembodiment, the second inlet 144B can include extended ducting 152B toallow the dual-mode pumping device 138B to pull air from a locationwhich is less likely to have mixed with waste fluid 101B.

FIGS. 35-38 illustrate another embodiment of a climate controlled seatassembly 30. While the embodiment is described with respect to thebackrest 34 and components of the backrest 34, it should be understoodthat the system can also be applied to the seat 32 and components of theseat 32. In addition, as described above, this embodiment can also beused in other types of support assemblies and other cooling/heatingapplications.

With reference first to FIG. 35, an embodiment of a backrest 34 isillustrated with a covering removed thereby exposing cushion 72. Layersof the cushion 72 have also been removed to expose structures underlyingthese layers. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the backrest 34can include a fluid distribution system 76A through which conditionedair 97A from a thermal module can be delivered to the seated occupant.The fluid distribution system 76A can be positioned at or proximate anupper back area 63 of the backrest 34. The backrest 34 can includeanother fluid distribution system 77A through which fluid can begathered and distributed towards the waste heat exchanger 100A togenerate the waste fluid 101A to be exhausted to the surroundingatmosphere. The fluid distribution system 77A can be positioned at orproximate a lumbar region 62 of the backrest 34. Accordingly, in theillustrated embodiment, conditioned air 97A can be delivered to theoccupant at or proximate the upper back area 63 and fluid can begathered and pulled from a the lumbar region 62. It is also contemplatedthat this arrangement can be reversed such that conditioned air 97A canbe delivered to the occupant at or proximate the lumbar region 62 andfluid can be gathered and pulled at or proximate the upper back area 63.In some embodiments, both fluid distribution systems 76A, 77A can beused to deliver conditioned air 97A to the occupant or can be used togather and pull fluid towards the waste heat exchanger 100A to generatethe waste fluid 101A to be exhausted to the surrounding atmosphere.

As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the fluid distribution system76A can include a passage 78A through which conditioned air 97A from athermal module can pass. The passage 78A can be in fluid communicationwith channels 80A. The channels 80A can advantageously distribute theconditioned air 97A over a wider area of the backrest 34 such that thecooling or heating effects of the conditioned air 97A is spread overthis wider area as opposed to being concentrated at the passage 78A. Thechannels 80A can extend laterally outward towards the sides 57, 59 ofthe backrest 34 and/or can extend in a upwards/downwards directiontowards the top side 58 or bottom side 60 of the backrest 34.

The fluid distribution system 77A can have a construction similar tothat of fluid distribution system 76A. As shown in the illustratedembodiment, the fluid distribution system 77A can include a passage 79Athrough which fluid can be gathered and pulled towards a waste heatexchanger 100A to generate the waste fluid 101A to be exhausted to thesurrounding atmosphere. The passage 79A can be in fluid communicationwith channels 123A. The channels 123A can advantageously allow fluid tobe pulled over a wider area of the backrest 34 such that the fluid flowis spread over this wider area as opposed to being concentrated at thepassage 79A. The channels 123A can extend laterally outward towards thesides 57, 59 of the backrest 34 and/or can extend in a upwards/downwardsdirection towards the top side 58 or bottom side 60 of the backrest 34.For example, the channels 123A can include a portion 85A which ispositioned further downward towards the bottom side 60 of the backrest34.

One or both of the fluid distribution systems 76A, 77A can include alayer 120 positioned between the channels 80A, 123A and the cushion 72.As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the layer 120 can be positionedover the passage 79A. Such an arrangement can beneficially maintain agap between the channels 123A and an overlying layer, such as thecushion 72. This can reduce the likelihood that the overlying layercollapses onto the passage 79A and/or portions of the channels 123Awhich could potentially restrict flow through the fluid distributionsystems 77A. In some embodiments, the layer 120 can be formed from amaterial having some degree of flexibility such as a thin plastic film.The layer 120 can be a semi-permeable or impermeable layer to reduce thetransfer of fluids from directly above the passage 79A. Layer 120 canalso be an insulating or semi-insulating layer to reduce heat transferacross the layer 120. Although not shown, a portion or the entirety ofthe channels 80A, 123A can be filled with an air permeable material,such as a spacer fabric, that can provide support for the occupant whilestill allowing the flow of air through the material.

With reference next to FIG. 36, a cushion 72 can be positioned over thefluid distribution systems 76A, 77A to provide support for the occupantand to reduce the likelihood that the channels 80A, 123A will affect thecomfort of the occupant. The cushion 72 can include one or more openings129A in fluid communication with the fluid distribution system 76A forallowing conditioned air 97A to pass through the cushion 72 and towardsthe seated occupant. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, theopenings 129A can be positioned at or adjacent the general location ofan occupant's upper back when seated on the backrest 34. By positioningthe openings 129A in this manner, the conditioned fluid 97B can beconcentrated in areas at or proximate the occupant such that the effectsof the conditioned fluid 97A will be more readily apparent to theoccupant. This can beneficially reduce the total energy usage to achievethe same conditioning effect. While the illustrated embodiment includesfour openings 129A positioned generally around an area at or adjacentthe general location of an occupant's upper back, other arrangements ofopenings 129A, including the use of a fewer or greater number ofopenings 129A, are contemplated.

The cushion 72 can include one or more openings 131A in fluidcommunication with the fluid distribution system 77A through which fluidcan be gathered and distributed towards the waste heat exchanger 100A togenerate the waste fluid 101A to be exhausted to the surroundingatmosphere. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the openings 131Acan be positioned at or adjacent the general location of an occupant'slower back or lumbar region when seated on the backrest 34. Bypositioning the openings 131A in this manner, the withdrawn fluid can beconcentrated in areas at or proximate the occupant such that the effectsof the withdrawn fluid will be more readily apparent to the occupant.This can beneficially reduce the total energy usage to achieve the sameeffect. While the illustrated embodiment includes twelve openings 131Apositioned generally around an area at or adjacent the general locationof an occupant's lower back, other arrangements of openings 131A,including the use of a fewer or greater number of openings 131A, arecontemplated.

With reference next to FIG. 37, an rear view of backrest 34 isillustrated showing a location of passages 78A, 79A. With reference nextto FIG. 38, a pumping device, such as dual-mode pumping device 138A canbe attached to the rear side of a backrest seat frame 75 used to supportthe cushion 72 and other portions of the backrest 34. As shown in theillustrated embodiment, the dual-mode pumping device 138A can include afirst inlet positioned in fluid communication with passage 79A such thatfluid can be pulled through passage 79A, into housing 139A and through awaste side heat exchanger, where a waste fluid 101A can be generated andexpelled out of the housing 139A. In some embodiments, the waste fluid101A can be expelled towards the rear side of the backrest frame 75. Thedual-mode pumping device 138A can include a second inlet 144A with asecond outlet positioned in fluid communication with passage 78A suchthat fluid can be pulled through second inlet 144A, into housing 139Aand through a main side heat exchanger, where a conditioned fluid can begenerated and introduced into passage 78A where it can be distributedthrough portions of the backrest 34 via the fluid distribution system76A. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the second inlet 144A caninclude ducting 152A to allow the dual-mode pumping device 138A to pullair from a location which is less likely to have mixed with waste fluid101A.

With reference to FIG. 39, a climate controlled seat assembly 30 havinga seat 32 and backrest 34. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, theseat 32 can include areas where conditioned fluid 97B is directedtowards the occupant and areas where fluid is drawn away from theoccupant. Moreover, the backrest 34 can include areas where conditionedfluid 97A is directed towards the occupant and areas where fluid isdrawn away from the occupant. This embodiment could use the systemsdescribed in connection with FIGS. 28-38 above.

It should be appreciated that the embodiment described above withreference to FIGS. 28-39 can be used in other types of supportassemblies and/or applications and need not be used in combination withthe additional embodiments described herein

To assist in the description of the disclosed embodiments, words such astop, bottom, front, rear, left, right, sides, above, and below may havebeen used describe the accompanying figures. Moreover, the followingterminology may have been used herein. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and“the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictatesotherwise. Thus, for example, reference to an item includes reference toone or more items. The term “ones” refers to one, two, or more, andgenerally applies to the selection of some or all of a quantity. Theterm “plurality” refers to two or more of an item. The term “about” or“approximately” means that quantities, dimensions, sizes, formulations,parameters, shapes and other characteristics need not be exact, but maybe approximated and/or larger or smaller, as desired, reflectingacceptable tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurementerror and the like and other factors known to those of skill in the art.The term “substantially” means that the recited characteristic,parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations orvariations, including for example, tolerances, measurement error,measurement accuracy limitations and other factors known to those ofskill in the art, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effectthe characteristic was intended to provide. It will be appreciated,however, that the illustrated embodiments can be located and oriented ina variety of desired positions.

Although the foregoing description of the preferred embodiments hasshown, described, and pointed out certain novel features, it will beunderstood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in theform of the detail of the apparatus as illustrated, as well as the usesthereof, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing fromthe spirit of this disclosure. Consequently, the scope of the presentinvention should not be limited by the foregoing discussion, which isintended to illustrate rather than limit the scope of the invention.

1. A climate controlled seat assembly, the climate controlled seatassembly comprising: a thermoelectric device comprising a main side anda waste side; a main heat exchanger coupled to the main side of thethermoelectric device for generating a conditioned fluid stream from afirst fluid stream; a waste heat exchanger coupled to the waste side ofthe thermoelectric device for generating a waste fluid stream from asecond fluid stream; a first fluid path in the seat assembly thatdirects the first fluid stream and the conditioned fluid stream to aseating surface configured to contact an occupant; and a second fluidpath that directs the second fluid stream from a location proximate theseating surface to the waste heat exchanger and the waste fluid streamaway from the occupant. 2-5. (canceled)
 6. The climate controlled seatassembly of claim 1, further comprising a first pumping devicefluidically coupled to at least one of the first fluid path and thesecond fluid path.
 7. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 6,further comprising a second pumping device, wherein the first pumpingdevice is fluidically coupled to the first fluid path and the secondpumping device is fluidically coupled to the second fluid path.
 8. Theclimate controlled seat assembly of claim 6, wherein the first pumpingdevice comprises: a rotor having a plurality of fins; a motor coupled tothe rotor; a first inlet in fluid communication with a first outlet; anda second inlet in fluid communication with a second outlet, wherein thefirst inlet and the first outlet of the first pumping device arefluidically coupled to the first fluid path and the second inlet andsecond outlet are fluidically coupled to the second fluid path.
 9. Theclimate controlled seat assembly of claim 8, wherein the main heatexchanger is positioned between the first inlet and the first outlet.10-21. (canceled)
 22. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 1,wherein the conditioned fluid stream is directed to an occupant at orproximate a thigh area of a seat comprising the seating surface, whereinthe seating surface is configured to contact the occupant.
 23. Theclimate controlled seat assembly of claim 1, wherein a seat comprisesthe seating surface and a first fluid distribution system at orproximate a seat area of the seat.
 24. The climate controlled seatassembly of claim 23, wherein the first fluid distribution systemcomprises channels extending laterally outwards towards sides of theseat.
 25. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 24, wherein thefirst fluid distribution system comprises an intermediate layerpositioned between the channels and an overlying layer of the seat, theintermediate layer configured to maintain a gap between the channels andthe overlying layer.
 26. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim25, wherein the overlying layer is a spacer fabric positioned betweenthe intermediate layer and a cushion of the seat.
 27. The climatecontrolled seat assembly of claim 23, wherein the seat comprises asecond fluid distribution system at or proximate a thigh area of theseat.
 28. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 27, wherein thesecond fluid distribution system comprises channels extending laterallyoutwards towards sides of the seat.
 29. The climate controlled seatassembly of claim 28, wherein the second fluid distribution systemcomprises an intermediate layer positioned between the channels and anoverlying layer, the intermediate layer configured to maintain a gapbetween the channels and the overlying layer.
 30. (canceled) 31.(canceled)
 32. The climate controlled seat assembly of claim 1, whereinthe second fluid stream is withdrawn at or proximate a lumbar region ofa backrest comprising the seating surface.
 33. The climate controlledseat assembly of claim 32, wherein the conditioned fluid stream isdirected to the occupant at or proximate an upper back area of thebackrest. 34-39. (canceled)
 40. A climate controlled seat assembly, theclimate controlled seat assembly comprising: a thermoelectric devicecomprising a main side and a waste side; a main heat exchanger coupledto the main side of the thermoelectric device for generating aconditioned fluid stream from a first fluid stream; and a waste heatexchanger coupled to the waste side of the thermoelectric device forgenerating a waste fluid stream from a second fluid stream, wherein theconditioned fluid stream is directed to a location proximate a seatingsurface configured to contact an occupant, wherein the second fluidstream is withdrawn from a location proximate the seating surfaceconfigured to contact an occupant.
 41. The climate controlled seatassembly of claim 40, wherein the seat assembly comprises channels alongtop surfaces of the side bolsters from which the second fluid stream iswithdrawn.
 42. (canceled)
 43. (canceled)
 44. The climate controlled seatassembly of claim 40, wherein the conditioned fluid stream is directedto the occupant at or proximate a thigh area of a seat comprising theseating surface.
 45. (canceled)
 46. The climate controlled seat assemblyof claim 40, wherein a seat comprises the seating surface and a firstfluid distribution system at or proximate to a seat area of the seat,wherein the first fluid distribution system comprises channels extendinglaterally outwards towards sides of the seat. 47-74. (canceled)
 75. Amethod of conditioning a seat assembly, the method comprising: producinga conditioned fluid stream from a first fluid stream; directing theconditioned fluid stream to a support surface configured to contact anoccupant; and withdrawing a second fluid stream from a locationproximate the support surface. 76-83. (canceled)